Chapel Service, April 25, 2010

19 of us went; Gary led the music together with Vern, Rhonda, Jesse and Darren. Al chaired the service, Jeff shared the sermon.

As we entered the chapel we were greeted by a few of the early guys. It was nice to be welcomed by them, into their church. Usually it’s the other way around.

Our choice of music always sets an atmosphere. It does so in this fellowship as well. Sometimes we use their hymnals, this time we sang popular choruses that we sing in our church. There may have been less participation from them, but they listened intently and joined in when they caught the melody.

Jeff shared from his heart. He had previously shared some of his testimony, and he continued it this time. He spoke of prayer, of forgiveness, and of grace. How he was reminded by other believers that God wanted for him to forgive those who hurt him most deeply, and then how he was able to grant forgiveness by pouring out his heart to God. Thank you Jeff, for sharing that with all of us.

A few more songs, a keyboard number from Jesse, and it was coffee time. I believe the count would have been close to 40 guys from the inside, and with the beautiful spring weather about 10 or so left for exercise time. The rest of us had coffee and talked.

I am intrigued with how God puts us with people in that setting. This time I was able to spend time with a fellow that grew up right in my home area. He was best friends with our former next-door neighbors. He spoke of how Ted had been there for him through the years, like a father figure. I was so pleased to hear how Ted had been such an encouragement in his life, and how much he relied on that support. We really need to realize how much we make an impact on the young people around us.

As I watched the rest of the room I was again impressed with the true fellowship I saw. Vern and S were going through some Bible study in preparation for S being baptized. Pastor Ben joined them. There were so many friendships developing between us. God was there. Gary was off in a corner with N, who was eager for someone to listen. And in the middle of the room, my daughter Erin, using her gift of counseling to help guide the life of another inmate.

We were joined for our “Team Special” at Boston Pizza by Farid and his new family. It was so good to hear that he has found new stability on the outside. He and his wife Sharon are embarking on a new journey, documenting stories of the residential school survivors, an era that we struggle to comprehend. I smiled as he told of his experiences on the winter roads this past year, crossing over thin ice, hearing the ice cracking under his tires, and praying fervently to God for protection. Let’s continue to hold him up in our prayers.

Once again we were blessed to be there. We pray that we were also able to bless them.

Gerald Barkman